As Fantasy Premier League (FPL) fans await the new season, the first day of price reveals has brought some notable changes that will impact team strategies for the 2026/27 campaign. These adjustments, driven by input from Fantasy managers, shape how squads are built and what players become desirable assets. Such dynamics can fundamentally alter competitive approaches in a league where every point counts.
At least three players were confirmed to see their prices adjusted, following votes from Fantasy managers, and the expectation is for more updates to come soon. Since player pricing is one of the most critical aspects of FPL, the reactions from fans and managers alike will be keenly observed as they readjust their strategies based on new valuations.
6PM – Gabriel Rises by £2.0M
The standout defender from last season, Gabriel Magalhaes, will now be priced at £8.0m, reflecting a substantial £2.0m increase from the previous season. Scoring an impressive total of 209 points, Gabriel's performance fell just short of Andrew Robertson’s record, a clear indication of how essential he was to Arsenal's defensive setup. His contributions toward clean sheets and defensive contributions (DefCon) points further solidified his worth as a reliable defender, particularly for those looking for points from the backline.
This price rise underscores a potential shift in how FPL is valuing defenders this season. With 10.5% of his points coming from DefCon, it’s clear that defensive contributions are being given more weight in the new valuation system. His eight attacking returns and 18 clean sheets should excite managers hunting for players who can deliver value. What makes this even more intriguing, though, is that this symbolic rise reflects a broader trend in the game; last season saw various successful defenders emerge that changed how FPL managers viewed defensive options. It raises the question: will this trend continue? It seems likely.
Above: Arsenal’s first 10 fixtures in 2026/27
4PM – Bruno Receives £3.0M Increase
Bruno Fernandes has been marked up to £12.0m, positioning him as the most expensive midfielder in FPL, reflecting a £3.0m rise since the last season. His nine goals and remarkable 24 assists, culminating in a total of 235 points, ensured he retained his status as a critical asset for Fantasy managers. This level of output sets a high bar, though it raises concerns about sustainability—especially in a season where European commitments could demand more from him.
The significant price increase marks Fernandes's highest initial valuation since the 2021/22 season. While this positions him as a must-have asset, the underlying anxiety is palpable among Fantasy managers. Can he maintain such stellar form when the team’s commitments increase? Relying too much on one player could be risky, especially given the competition for midfielder slots. Who else will share this limelight? Speculation is rife, as FPL hinted that at least one other player will also see a £3.0m increase.
2PM – Haaland Sets New Price Record
Erling Haaland has made headlines with a record price tag of £15.5m, surpassing his own previous record of £15.0m set back in the 2024/25 season. After a drop to £14.0m at the start of 2025/26, this increase follows an impressive return of 239 points last season, making it his second-best campaign to date. For Fantasy managers, this valuation sets a new standard in how top forwards might be priced, which could change overall team dynamics.
This significant price rise may signal a shift in FPL dynamics, as managers often weigh options heavily between Haaland and other top forwards like Mohamed Salah. Now that Salah is out of the equation, selecting Haaland becomes an even more pivotal part of squad planning. What decisions do managers face? His early-season performance history indicates that he often provides substantial returns during the first weeks—essential in affecting team formation and budget allocations.
Managers may hesitate to go without Haaland at the start. After all, he tends to start seasons strong, and in previous campaigns, his performances during the first six weeks have often set the tone for the rest of his year. It’s this time where strategies can become decisive, affecting overall league standings considerably. (And this is the part most people overlook: starting strong can be the backbone of a successful season.)
Haaland’s First Six Gameweeks Performance
| Season | Pts | Goals | Assists |
| 2022/23 | 67 | 10 | 1 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023/24 | 51 | 8 | 1 |
| 2024/25 | 65 | 10 | 0 |
| 2025/26 | 62 | 8 | 1 |
Looking ahead, Manchester City also have a favorable start to the 2026/27 schedule, further enhancing Haaland's appeal for Fantasy managers aiming for early success. Managers should assess their strategies in a way that best capitalizes on this advantage.
WATCH: Price Reveal Reactions
The player price revelations have led to mixed reactions across the FPL community. Many managers are diving into discussions online, analyzing the implications of these changes on their teams. Changes in player pricing can lead to a wave of activity as managers scramble to reassess their squads. Some will jump on the early hypes, while others may look to balance their teams to mitigate risks posed by price increases.
Implications for Team Strategy
The adjustments in player pricing have the potential to reshape team strategies as managers prepare for the upcoming season. With Gabriel and Fernandes seeing significant rises in value, how managers allocate their funds will be more pivotal than ever. Will defensive assets become more important in gameplay? Can a healthy mix of high-priced players and budget-friendly options make a difference?
This situation brings a blend of excitement and anxiety. If you're working in this space, interpreting these new prices will require a keen understanding of both current team strengths and player form. The coming weeks will reveal how effectively managers can adapt to these shifts while managing their budgets wisely. It’s all about finding that balance, ensuring that you’re neither overly reliant on early-season performance nor blind to the collective impact these pricing strategies have in the long run.